Pittsburgh -- Pittsburgh Pirates All-Star closer Jason Grilli pitched a simulated game on Wednesday and is nearing a return from a strained right forearm.

Grilli threw 25 pitches to a handful of teammates and said he is encouraged by the results. The 36-year-old has been on the disabled list since injuring his arm in a 6-5 victory over Washington on July 22.

The righthander, a Baldwinsville native, made the All-Star team for the first time and was second in the National League with 30 saves at the time of the injury. Grilli said he won't rush back even as the Pirates battle St. Louis and Cincinnati for the NL Central title.